Expert: nick mccann - 7/2/2010

Question
Hi there! I have two avocado plants growing from seeds. One is about six months old and the other is around four. They're both around a foot and a half tall. One's in a eight inch or so diameter pot and the younger is in a six inch one. I know avocados require little water and a lot of sunlight. I'd assume water in pots dries out quicker than in the ground however, and that the sunlight dries it up even quicker. Any advice on watering? Also, when should I move them to a bigger pot? I live in NJ so I keep them outside in the summer, should I bring them in at the end of summer or fall? Thanks!

-Nikki

Answer
Hi Nikki, they are tropical, so they need to be brought in before the first frost, but move them in gradually, so they adjust to the difference in ambient temperatures and humidity; they do indeed need Sun and little water (quickest way to kill them is too much water), so use a ceramic container, for they dry out quicker and be sure to line the bottom with drainage material, so the roots stay above any moisture that hasn't drained off. Move them into a larger container when you see roots at the drainage holes, watering them before removing them, so as to prevent as much transplant shock as possible. They like humidity, being tropical by nature, so mist the leaves frequently to imitate this and deter spider mites. Nick